Arkansas Razorbacks Roster 2019 Razorbacks Roster

Head Coach: Chad Morris        2017 Salary: N/A        Offensive Coordinator: Joe Craddock       Defensive Coordinator: John Chavis         

Stadium: Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium       Surface: Turf        City: Fayetteville        State: Arkansas

Coming off a bottom-busting 1-7 record in the SEC West (4-8 overall), the Arkansas Razorbacks are back in rebuilding mode. However, that doesn’t mean 2018 will be a lost cause. New head coach Chad Morris installed offensive schemes that lead to a +470 yard average per game during the past three seasons at SMU, and he arrives at Arkansas with key players coming back on both sides of the ball.

New offensive coordinator Joe Craddock came to Arkansas with Morris after coaching in the same role at SMU. Since the coaches are already synched up with their offense, it’s a matter of tweaking it to the available talent. Returning Arkansas players are no stranger to aggressive passing offenses. Former head coach Brian Bielema was known for it, and he is now a consultant to Bill Belichick with the New England Patriots of the NFL.

Arkansas is also loaded with talent at QB. Cole Kelley and Ty Storey both saw action in the first game of 2018 and lead the offense to 55 points. Nearly all players who caught passes last season return (12), and there’s enough talent in the backfield to develop a solid running game as the season progresses. The biggest question mark over the long haul is the offensive line. They are known to be big, but not the most athletic. They will have to be consistent at pass blocking in order for the new offense to really get off the ground – no pun intended.

The Razorbacks couldn’t buy a third down stop, sack, or tackle for a loss last season. With a fresh coaching staff and key returning starters, the remainder of the unit will have to step up so it can keep the dynamic offense on the field. If the new defense can perform respectably in the trenches, improve the pass rush, and increase third down stops, the strong secondary won’t be too overworked to keep big pass plays to a minimum. Overall, improvement on defense is key for the Razorbacks in 2018. If that happens, Arkansas will be looking at 7 wins to start the Chad Morris era.